Bright Light Bright Light - There Are No Miracles

Pre-order the There Are No Miracles EP (UK iTunes)

The fact that one Sir Rod of Thomas loves the 90s is not just a boon to his musical styles that have charmed many a person over his two album and multitude of single releases. It's also a bonus for how he plans and executes his alter-ego's Bright Light Bright Light album/singles campaigns. It takes me right back to the late 80s/early 90s where physical releases were the norm and artists like Kylie, Erasure, Pet Shop Boys et al would release 4-5 singles off each album with brilliantly orchestrated choices, supported by remixes, bonus tracks and glorious videos. Ah how I miss those days. Luckily artists like BLBL revive these halcyon days which may well be responsible for the resurgence in CD and vinyl sales. The talented and handsome chap's latest single, There Are No Miracles, is single number six (I think - ooo how very Janet Jackson Rhythm Nation 1814) from his excellent album Life Is Easy and serves as a celebration of his recent opening act gig with Elton John. The release is packed with live songs specific to each territory it is being marketed in, from venues in those respective countries (e.g. Scandinavia gets Cry At Films at Oslo Spektrum while France gets Feel It at Lilith Zenith). It's all very exciting but the focus of this review is on the actual song at the heart of this latest release. It's a lyrical tale of how we should all work for the things that matter most to us - whether they be dreams, people, relationships or aspirations. It's not going to be handed to you on a plate because only you can make it happen. It's a timely and timeless message for the have-it-all-now, famous-for-being-famous generation we live in. And for all of Rod's love of 80s synth and 90s dance music (influences that permeate the album), his music always manages to sound entirely contemporary whilst retaining a nod to the past. The propulsive yet subtle beats here have a lo-fi feel to them yet there's something compulsive about the arrangement that lures you inexorably towards the dancefloor. As Rod sings about how lessons in life can be difficult he definitely fills you with hope that anything you really want that badly is well worth the effort it can take - and while there's a melancholy vibe to Rod's vocals, it's his fervent urging that keeps the track alive with a glimmer of potential for what so easily can be lost. Another exquisite song, another excellent choice for single (though I still adore Lust for Life if he's hoping to go all Love Will Never Do Without You on our asses :D)

(Do take time to watch the very lovely indeed video that goes with the song. Rod frankly has never looked better all bow-tied up and the visual tale of young Rod marching to the beat of his own drum is completely inspiring).